The National @ Terminal 5

Got a chance to check out The National yesterday. Thanks Dave! They played the inaugural show at Terminal 5, a new venue in midtown.

Terminal 5 is part of the burgeoning Bowery Ballroom empire. Brand spanking new, it still looked a bit unfinished and industrial. In fact, my first thought was of a prison. Jailhouse rock? This room will probably take some business from Roseland and Hammerstein Ballroom as it competes in terms of size and location. And its a little nicer.

The National are not nearly as new as Terminal 5, but easily just as big. This sold out show was packed to the rafters. Unfortunately, the band failed to take advantage of that energy early. Instead, they played a lot of slower numbers which were a bit tough to engage the bigger room.

They came on strong in the second half of their set though. I'd definitely like to see them again. But preferably in a more intimate setting.

Thanks to Brooklyn Vegan for the pic!